Inquiry Into Southampton Stabbing

Southampton detectives investigating a stabbing in Shirley are appealing for a taxi driver - believed to be a vital witness - to come forward.

Officers are looking for the driver of a white taxi which picked up a fare in Winchester Road near the Black Smiths Arms pub sometime between 12.30am and 1.30am on Sunday, June 26.  It’s believed he dropped his fare in the Thornhill area.

Police were called to a house in Winchester Road around 12.45am on the Sunday following reports that a man had been stabbed several times.

The victim - a 28-year-old Southampton man - was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he’s still being treated for his injuries.

Two Southampton men aged 48 and 35 were arrested in connection with the incident. The 48-year-old has been released on police bail until July 20 while enquiries continue.

The 35-year-old, Alan Joseph Laidler, of no fixed abode was charged with attempted murder and perverting the course of justice. He is currently on remand waiting for his next court appearance.

Detectives are now asking taxi drivers in the city to think back to whether they took a fare between Winchester Road and Thornhill at around that time. If they did, they’re asked to contact the Operation Gainestown Team at the Major Crime Department at Fratton Police Station on 101.

Anyone else who thinks they know who the taxi driver may be, or has any other information about the incident, is asked to call the same number or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.